I hope everyone had a lovely holiday season! I spent them with my family in Minnesota and opted to take a vacation from blogging so that I could maximize my family time. I think it was a wise decision. However, before I went on vacation, I had the opportunity to ask my students what they thought about the blogging project. Here’s what they had to say:

The idea of blogging was good but not the actual blogging. (I think that probably means it was a lot of work, but I’m still encouraged that this person saw the value in blogging.)

The blogs helped with the analysis essay because there was scaffolding and they were encouraged to think about the novel a many points while reading.

Some of them wanted more freedom. I had provided them with a sheet of questions that focused on plot, characters, setting, point of view, etc. and some of the students didn’t understand that it was to be a guide and not something that was set in stone. (So that’s my bad, for sure!)

People didn’t read the blogs… This was a concern of mine, too. I had tried to connect with various educators, but no one was very interested in participating or leaving comments so I think many students were discouraged. I had assigned them to comment on each other’s blogs, but many students forgot, so I think I will have to assign them to specific blogs each week. In fact, I was thinking of having one class work with another and vice versa. Yes, it would be in-house and not quite as cool as making a connection with someone in Queretaro or across the Pacific Ocean, but something is better than nothing. In order for my students to stay motivated, they need comments on their work and not just from me.

Well, those were the points that were repeated or stood out to me. Overall, my students had a positive reaction to the blogging process. It was new to most of them, but I think now that we’ve done it for a semester, it will be easier; however, I do plan to shift the focus. But that will be for another day. ;-) Cheers, Lesley

About the Author

Lesley is an English teacher who is passionate about using connectivism in the classroom and preparing students and teachers for using the tools that are available to them on a regular basis. This blog will focus on iPad apps and Web 2.0 tools that can enhance and diversify learning. Leave a comment and let me know what you think or what you'd like to learn about!